An irrigation system, consisting of a combination of mechanical components and electrical parts, relies heavily on water pressure and flow to effectively distribute water to plants and landscapes.
The installation process of an irrigation system necessitates careful consideration of electric parts that may be susceptible to water pressure and flow. Electrical components, including control panels, timers, and solenoid valves, must be appropriately positioned and adequately protected to avoid contact with water. This ensures the safety of individuals involved in the system’s operation and maintenance, as well as safeguards against potential short circuits or electrical hazards that could arise from water exposure.
High voltage Electrical Parts of an irrigation system
Controllers and most of the pumps in typical booster sets are designed to operate on a standard 230V voltage, making them similar to other household appliances. However, it is important to note that certain types of pumps and controllers can be installed outdoors, which means they may be exposed to various weather conditions. To mitigate any potential damage, outdoor controllers are equipped with their own lockable enclosure that provides protection against splashing water, ensuring their safe installation outside.
On the other hand, submersible pumps are constantly submerged in water, making it imperative to have adequate overcurrent protection in place. This protection is necessary to prevent any electrical issues that may arise due to the continuous exposure to water.
Depending on the availability of space, electrical parts can be installed at a considerable distance from each other or from the power source. In such cases, power cables may be laid in trenches or securely attached to walls, fences, or other structures. This ensures the proper functioning of the booster set, even when components are not in close proximity to each other.
Typically, standing pumps are installed near the water storage area and are susceptible to weather conditions. To safeguard against any potential damage caused by rain or other outdoor elements, these pumps are installed within a waterproof cabinet. Additionally, we take extra precautions to protect the power cables from accidental cutting by applying an armoured coating, ensuring their durability and longevity.
Low voltage electrical parts of an irrigation system
Whilst the high voltage electrical parts take up relatively small portion of the system but the low voltage parts are more often. Each zone has an electric valve in a nearby distribution unit which is operated by the controller. When the controller sends the signal to the valve by the program, then the valve will open and let the water flow into the emitters of the zone.
But the controller may be located far from the distribution unit so there must be an electrical wiring between the unit and the controller. Electrical parts work on low voltage to prevent any serious accident that might happen during cutting through these wires. Laying these wires on a safe route will lead to the sure working of the system. Usually the signal wiring runs besides the primary pipework between the water source and the distribution units.
Electric valves are the typical example of mixed parts. Their electric connection makes possible their opening and closing. Whilst their inlet and outlet is the route for the water flow between the primary and secondary pipeworks. Most of the solenoids are installed in valve boxes, sunk in the soil so there is a high chance to be submerged when the rainwater collects in the box. For ensuring their reliable working the wiring connection between the signal wires and the solenoids is made by waterproof connectors.